Jacksonville Ponds

Ronnie Van Zant Memorial Park provides both activity-based and resource-based facilities. Activity-based facilities include two basketball courts, four tennis courts, one soccer field, one softball field, seven covered pavilions with picnic areas, one volleyball court, and a fishing pond with four fishing piers. This park was really built for and around kids. At the first entrance to the park is an extremely nice playground with all the jungle gym stuff. Follow the road around to the stocked fishing pond. Bass, Catfish and Brim abound, but be aware of the regulations at this park. The pond is managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC). You can only fish here (as an adult) if you are accompanied by a child of 16 years old or younger. Florida residents 65 years of age or older are also permitted.

I was in the Orange Park area and found this little spot back behind Office Depot and Pet Smart in an area called Westland Park or Lake Gray. The water was a little shallow around some of the areas around the bank, but still some deeper water towards the center. There is a couple of spots with structure here and a little cover. I didn't get to fish long at this location as a hungy gator was interested in what I was throwing. The 4 foot gator got pretty close to me, so I didn't stay around to fish anymore. There are a few other ponds around this area, but some fishable, others were not. There isn't much parking at all and if you do find a spot, you may have to do some walking. There are some business parks in this area, that may tow your vehicle if you park in their lot. If there are any reports on the fishing at this location, please comment.

As part of the Jacksonville Urban Pond Project, Bethesda Park, offers excellent fishing opportunites and enjoyment for the entire family. At this location you will find: restrooms, walking trail, 3 fishing piers, a boardwalk, picnic area (equipped with grills), and a boat ramp for those that would like to paddle around.